Ptolemy VII – 145-144 BC

Monetary History of Egypt

Ptolemaic Dynasty

Ptolemy VII Neos Philopator

145-144 BC

Ptolemy VII Neos Philopator was the seventh ruler of the Ptolemaic Dynasty and the unfortunate son of Ptolemy VI Philometor and Cleopatra II. Upon his father’s death in battle against the Syrians, Ptolemy VII was still only about 16 years old, He had been appointed co-ruler by his father earlier that same year. His mother, Cleopatra II, became regent in charge of state affairs.

His father’s long-standing dispute with his brother opened the door for further conflict. Ptolemy VII’s uncle ( Ptolemy VIII Euergetes II) had settled for dividing the empire years ago. Upon learning of his brother’s death, he invaded Egypt and forced his young nephew to share the throne.

Ptolemy VIII could not easily dispose of the young king’s mother and his sister – Cleopatra II. Instead, he married her. To the shock of many, Ptolemy VII was murdered at his mother’s wedding to his uncle. In the end, Cleopatra II became his rival and even managed to drive him out of Egypt for a brief period.